7 Types Of Roofing In 2025 (Lifespan, Costs Per Sq Ft)
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7 Types of Roofing Materials: Cost & Lifespan Breakdown

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Posted By: Roof Troopers

Beautiful luxury home with stellar roof warranties

Quality roofing should save you money on heating and cooling bills, ensure the maximum life expectancy of the roofing materials, and look great.

In this guide, we’re going to break down the different types of roofing that you can invest in and advise you which works best for specific climates and geographic locations. (It’s important to note before we dive in that not all types of roofing work in every region or environment.)

*average costs don’t always include installation

7 Types of Roofing Materials

1. Asphalt Shingles

asphalt shingles; types of roofing

Asphalt shingles are the most popular roofing material for residential properties in the United States, making up over 75% of residential roofing installations. These shingles are fire-resistant, come in many different colors, and vary in quality. One of the best features of these shingles is that they are easily repairable and can tend to hold up well.

Cost: Depending upon the quality and the style of the shingle, the average price is between $4.50 to $10 per square foot.

Lifespan: The lifespan of asphalt shingles can vary based on quality and climate. Some high-quality asphalt shingles can last up to 15-25 years with proper maintenance.

2. Slate

Craftsmen are installing a slate roof home.Professional roof workers installing roof for a old house .Working on rooftop; types of roofing

Using slate as a roofing product is a practice that has been around for centuries. Slate first arrived in America during 16th century, and the first slate quarry opened in 1785. While it isn’t as popular today, it was a state-of-the-art product for some time.

These roofs tend to last slightly longer and have a very distinct look to them. Slate is not a roofing material that you would ever want to try and do yourself. The individual tiles are very heavy and it will require a well-trained slate roofing expert to install them. The challenge, along with the cost of the material, is why these roofs tend to be more expensive.

Cost: The cost of a slate roof varies between $15.00–$30.00 per square foot.

Lifespan: These roofs can last about 60 – 150 years, all depending upon the type of slate and the quality.

3. Wood Shakes/Shingles

wood shake rooftop shingles

Wood shakes, and wood shingles have been around forever and are a great roofing solution. They are made out of western red cedar, cypress, pine, and redwood. Which material you end up going with depends on your region and budget. These shingles have a very distinct look and do require some regular maintenance.

Compared to a slate shingle that can have little to no maintenance for 50+ years, a wood shake or shingle needs to be cleaned, maintained, and treated regularly.

Cost: Wood can be expensive to put on your roof and is definitely seen as a luxury in many areas because of the maintenance associated with them. You’re going to be looking at a cost between $7.50 and $11. 

Lifespan: With proper maintenance, these roofs can last up to 30 years but some may also have shorter lifespan due to the exposure of harsh temperatures or wet climates.

4. Metal Roofing

closeup of metal roof material type

Metal roofs are becoming more popular in recent years because of their life expectancy and cost-effectiveness. Metal roofing can often be seen on farms, storage facilities, or larger structures. Today, however, it is commonly used in residential areas. This type of roof is extremely durable, 100 percent recyclable, and can often be repainted instead of replaced.

Metal roofing materials include galvanized steel, galvalume steel, aluminum, zinc, copper, titanium, and stainless steel.

Costs:

  • Galvanized Steel: Approximately $1.50 to $3.50 per square foot.
  • Galvalume Steel: Similar to galvanized steel, ranging from $1.50 to $3.50 per square foot.
  • Aluminum: Approximately $3.50 to $6.50 per square foot.
  • Zinc: Approximately $12 to $21 per square foot.
  • Copper: Approximately $20 to $45 per square foot.
  • Titanium: Titanium roofing is less common in residential applications, and specific pricing information is limited. Costs can vary significantly based on market availability and project specifics. For precise pricing, it’s advisable to consult with specialized suppliers or contractors.
  • Stainless Steel: Approximately $7 to $22 per square foot.

Lifespan of each metal roof material:

  • Steel (Galvanized and Galvalume): 40 to 70 years
  • Aluminum: 50 to 100 years
  • Zinc: 60 to 100 years
  • Copper: 70 to 100 years (or more)
  • Titanium: 75 to 100 years
  • Stainless Steel: 50 to 100 years

5. Clay Tile Roofing

closeup of tile roof type with chimneys

You might be familiar with the bright orange color of roofs in the south or on the west coast as your plane approaches the airport in these areas. Tile roofs have traditionally been very heavy but are becoming lighter. They also have a very long life expectancy. The drawback to their attractive design and long life expectancy is the cost of installation—along with the fact that, like slate roofing, tile is very brittle.

Cost: What you pay will significantly range depending on the quality of the product you decide on, but on average, you can expect to pay $10 to $20 per square foot for a new tile roof installation. For a typical 2,000 square foot roof, this equates to a total cost of $20,000 to $40,000. 

Lifespan: High-end clay tiles are going to last anywhere from 75-100 years before needing to be replaced. Lower to mid-range concrete is going to last around 50 years.

6. Composite Roofing

composite roof shingles in brown color

Composite roofing looks very similar to wood shakes or wood shingles. This type of roofing is made from a mixture of several common roofing materials. In a way, composite is like the hybrid of roofing materials.

Composite roofing tends to last a long time with most materials carrying a warranty from anywhere between 30 to 50 years. Another great thing about composite is that it has a large variety of color options.

Composite roofing can also be an eco-friendly option because of its life expectancy and because it is often made from recycled materials. So, while not being as natural as a wood shake or metal roof, it is still a good option if you’re concerned about the environmental effects of replacing your roof.

Cost: Composite roofs tend to be priced pretty competitively at anywhere from $7.75 to $15.50.

Lifespan: The lifespan of this shingle is dependent on what you’re willing to pay for it. A cheaper option is obviously not going to last quite as long as something that runs more. On average, you can expect to see 15-50+ years depending on the type and quality of composite that you purchase.

7. Rubber Roofing

edge of roof shingles on top of the house dark asphalt tiles on the roof background color

What rubber roofing lacks in aesthetics it makes up for in lifespan and cost-effectiveness. Rubber roofing tends to have a longer lifespan and can be a great option if you aren’t bothered by how plain it is. Maintenance tends to be fairly minimal with the need for repainting every 10-12 years. Often times rubber roofs are made from recycled materials and they take less energy to manufacture than other roofing materials. They are also 100% recyclable at the end of their life.

Another great thing about rubber is that it is easy and very cheap to patch or repair the roof if it ever is punctured or begins to leak.

Cost: The cost of rubber roofing is competitive at roughly $4 to $8 per square foot installed.

Lifespan: Rubber roofing technology is continuing to get better, and because of that, they are now often rated to last around 30 to 50 years.

Roof Designs

Roof designs play a crucial role in determining the overall aesthetic appeal and functionality of a building. The right design can enhance the architectural style of your home while providing practical benefits like improved ventilation and additional living space.

  • Gable Roof: This classic design features two sloping sides that meet at a ridge, forming a triangular shape. Gable roofs are ideal for simple and cost-effective construction, offering excellent water drainage and ample attic space. They are a popular choice for many homeowners due to their timeless appeal and versatility.
  • Hip Roof: A hip roof has four sloping sides that meet at the ridge, creating a more stable and wind-resistant structure. This design is suitable for various architectural styles and climates, providing better durability and a sleek, modern look. Hip roofs are particularly effective in areas prone to high winds and heavy snowfall.
  • Mansard Roof: Inspired by French architecture, the mansard roof features two slopes on each side, with the lower slope being steeper than the upper one. This design provides additional living space, often used for attics or lofts, and adds a unique, elegant appearance to the building. Mansard roofs are perfect for homeowners looking to maximize their interior space.
  • Gambrel Roof: The gambrel roof, often seen in barns and colonial-style homes, has two slopes on each side, with the lower slope being steeper. This design offers more headroom and storage space, making it ideal for homes with large attics. Gambrel roofs bring a rustic charm and are a great choice for those seeking a traditional look.
  • Shed Roof: A shed roof features a single sloping side, making it one of the simplest and most cost-effective designs. This modern and minimalist design is perfect for contemporary homes and extensions, providing excellent water drainage and easy installation. Shed roofs are also ideal for adding skylights or solar panels.

Eco-Friendly Roofing Materials

As concern for the environment grows, eco-friendly roofing options have become increasingly popular. These options not only reduce the carbon footprint of a building but also provide long-term cost savings. Here are some popular eco-friendly roofing options to consider:

  • Solar Shingles: An innovative solution that integrates solar panels into roofing shingles, solar shingles generate electricity while providing insulation. This dual functionality makes them an excellent choice for homeowners looking to reduce their energy bills and environmental impact. Solar shingles blend seamlessly with traditional roofing materials, maintaining the aesthetic appeal of your home.
  • Green Roofs: A sustainable option featuring a layer of vegetation on top of a waterproofing membrane, green roofs reduce energy consumption and increase biodiversity. They provide natural insulation, improve air quality, and create a habitat for wildlife. Green roofs are particularly beneficial in urban areas, where they can help mitigate the heat island effect.
  • Recycled Roofing Materials: Using recycled materials, such as reclaimed wood or recycled metal, is a cost-effective option that reduces waste and minimizes environmental impact. These materials are often just as durable and attractive as their non-recycled counterparts, making them a smart choice for eco-conscious homeowners.
  • Energy-Efficient Roofing Materials: A range of materials, such as cool roofs and radiant barrier roofing, are designed to reduce energy consumption and minimize heat gain. Cool roofs reflect more sunlight and absorb less heat, keeping your home cooler and reducing the need for air conditioning. Radiant barrier roofing works by reflecting radiant heat, improving the overall energy efficiency of your home.

Things To Consider When Choosing A Roofing Material

When you begin to look into different materials for roofing, you have to look beyond the aesthetic appeal of some of the different types of roofing. Sure, the overall curbside appeal of your roof is important, but it needs to be durable as well. You also want to make sure that it makes sense for your budget. The last thing you need is a roof that doesn’t last as long as it should or that costs you more than you need to spend or can afford.

closeup of flat gravel roof type during snow hail and ice storm

The Weather

If you’ve ever been to Florida or someplace warmer, you might notice that their roofing materials tend to look a little different than the materials that are used in colder climates. In the northern Virginia area, the weather can be very unpredictable and, at times, very taxing on your roofing materials.

Virginia, on average, can expect to see 35-45 inches of annual precipitation. That’s a lot of water coming down in the forms of rain, snow, and ice & hail.

Temperatures in Virginia also can fluctuate from between lows in the 20’s and highs in the 90’s. This makes for a diverse climate that needs a roof to be able to handle it all.

Hazardous Conditions

No roof is going to hold up against really bad storms completely, but a high-quality roof that is installed properly is going to hold up much better than a mid to low quality roof that is installed quickly and carelessly. 

The state of Virginia has tornados, high winds, and potentially even cyclones, and hurricanes. These are unpreventable conditions that aren’t easily prepared for, but it’s critical to do whatever you can.

Lifespan

There is no reason outside of uncontrolled disasters that your roof shouldn’t last at least 15 to 20 years. Different materials have different lifespans, so be sure to discuss with your contractor what is right for you.

Warranty

When considering lifespan it’s also important to check on the warranties offered by the manufacturer of your roofing material or by the contractor. Asking these types of questions can help you guarantee you’re getting the best bang for your buck.

Fire Rating

It’s always important that you know the fire rating of your roof. Whether you live in Main or Arizona it’s important to be prepared to face wildfires or house fires. While some roofs such as tile, cement, metal, etc. are all going to be completely resistant, other types of roofing materials—such as wood shakes—can, at times, not be at all fire-resistant. While most modern wood, rubber, and asphalt roofs are going to be treated and manufactured to be fire-resistant, you must know for sure what your roof is going to be able to withstand.

When selecting a roofing material and design, it’s essential to consider factors such as climate, maintenance, and local building codes. Consulting with a roofing contractor can provide valuable insights and help homeowners make an informed decision that best suits their needs and budget.

Solar panel on a red roof; types of roofing

The Future of Roofing

Different types of roofing materials and solutions to roofing are always being improved to efficiently keep water out and heat in. While the future for roofing materials is very bright, there aren’t any specific products that are better than that which is already on the market.

The future of roofing will see continued improvement in the lifespan of products and, hopefully in the cost as well. It is expected that roofs will continue to be stronger to meet the damages of consumers.

Lastly, with the increase in solar energy, we can expect that in areas where it is beneficial, there will be more and more solar panels on top of houses. This may make stylish roofing materials less desirable and will require roofing to have more structural integrity to support the weight it will be bear. But some designers are working on creating solar shingles to help improve the aesthetic and make solar energy more desirable.

Choosing the Right Contractor

Finding the right material for your roof is only half the battle. The second half of the battle is finding the right contractor. If you’re in the market for a new roof or if you’re not sure when the last time your roof was replaced, then we would love it if you reached out to us!

Not only do we want to help you find the best solution to your roofing needs, but we want to help you better understand what is going to be best for your home. It’s important to us that you find the right fit for your project.

Reach out to set up a free estimate!

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